MMUST’s 19th International Multidisciplinary Conference Kicks Off as Researchers Call for Integrated Solutions for People, Ecosystems, AI and Public Health
Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology’s 19th International Multidisciplinary Conference has kicked off today, 14th May, 2026. The two-day blended Conference, which was officially opened by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo, has been organized jointly by the School of Public Health, Biomedical Sciences and Technology (SPHBS&T), the School of Medicine (SOM), and the School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedical Sciences (SONMAPS). This year’s event, themed ‘Planetary Health: Integrated Solutions for People, Ecosystems, AI and Public Health,’ has been supported by the University of Rijeka-Croatia, Munster Technological University (MTU)-Ireland, INGENIUM European University Alliance, UNESCO, International Federation of Biosafety Association, Science Latitude, Science Matrix, Plugged In, Elysium and Cell Center Groups.
“This year’s Conference embodies the spirit of interdisciplinary scientific inquiry and the urgent need for holistic, integrated solutions to humanity’s most pressing challenges. I encourage all presenters in this Conference to engage boldly, challenge conventional thinking, ask difficult questions and forge meaningful interdisciplinary and international partnerships that will extend far beyond these two days,” said Prof. Shibairo. While reading the Chairperson of Council’s speech, the Vice Chancellor commended MMUST researchers for their notable achievements across disciplines. “As Council, we commit to supporting world-class research infrastructure and nurturing strategic international partnerships that benefit our university and the region,” read the speech.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo, addresses Conference participants during the official opening ceremony.
In his address, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic and Student Affairs)-Prof. Hussein Golicha noted that the University remains committed to creating an inclusive and supportive academic environment that empowers every scholar to thrive and contribute meaningfully to planetary health solutions. Representing the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Planning, Research and Innovation), Prof. Benedict Alala, stated that the Division will continue to support the annual Conference, recognizing that it is a platform for knowledge sharing, collaboration and dissemination of research findings. “Let this Conference further strengthen MMUST’s research culture and contribute significantly to Kenya’s national development agenda and global sustainability goals for current and future generations,” urged Prof. Alala.
The Director of Research and Postgraduate Support (DRPS)-Prof. Francis Orata revealed that the MMUST health and medicine Schools have contributed significantly towards the University’s research fund portfolio. “In the last two and a half years, these Schools have attracted research grants amounting to 113.6 million Kenyan Shillings. These funds have enabled MMUST to conduct cutting-edge research and provide tangible solutions to challenges facing the community. I look forward to a rich scientific engagement and new ideas that will shape a better future for our planet,” remarked Prof. Orata. Further, Prof. Orata invited researchers and innovators to attend the upcoming MMUST-LREB Research and Innovation Dissemination Conference, scheduled for 27th to 30th May, 2026 at the University.
The Director of Research and Postgraduate Support-Prof. Francis Orata gives his remarks at the Conference.
Commenting on the theme, the Dean SPHBS&T-Dr. Evans Raballah pointed out that it highlights the vital link between human and ecosystem health. “This Conference offers a platform for us to address critical issues, including climate-induced diseases, pandemics, and environmental health challenges. We are particularly excited about this Conference’s sub-themes, which are Biotechnology, Health Innovation and Engineering for Resilient Populations, Climate Adaptation, Smart Agriculture, Food Systems and Water Security, as well as Sports Science and Health Promotion. These areas align with our strengths in biomedical technologies, AI public health applications, and preventive strategies,” said Dr. Raballah.
Similarly, the Dean-SOM, Dr. Anthony Sifuna asserted that the theme of the Conference resonates well with his School’s goal of training skilled doctors, who are proficient in AI diagnostics, precision medicine and climate-related health issues. “Health is shaped by environmental and technological factors. This Conference is timely as Africa faces dual disease burdens and environmental threats. It provides an excellent opportunity to share evidence-based solutions and build resilient health systems,” he added. On his part, the Dean-SONMAPS, Mr. John Arudo, appreciated the opportunity for scholars to explore how nurses can contribute to research in climate change and leverage AI in patient care.
University of Rijeka’s Prof. Marko Perić follows keenly.
The Associate Dean-SPHBS&T, Dr. Mustafa Barasa, in an interview with DCCM revealed that the Conference will see over sixty (60) papers presented by researchers drawn from various countries, including Kenya, Uganda, Congo, Ireland, Canada and Croatia. “It has been a great pleasure organizing this Conference, particularly as education and healthcare seek to integrate AI into their systems,” noted Dr. Barasa, who has played a critical role in organizing this Conference.
This year’s Conference has once again provided a multidisciplinary platform for experts, researchers, policymakers, innovators and community stakeholders to collaborate on addressing complex global challenges. Certainly, the discussions on human well-being, environmental sustainability, AI and public health, will promote the development of innovative and inclusive solutions that will not only improve lives, but also protect ecosystems.
By Caren Nekesa and Wangari Wambugu
Photos by Shiundu Masafu
